Matildas Show Sympathy for Iran Amid Crisis

0:00From Sydney, this is your March 3rd update. The Australian Matilda's Women's Soccer team is showing deep sympathy for their upcoming opponents from Iran in the Asian Cup. The two sides will clash on Thursday at 8 p.m. Australian Eastern Daylight time at Rabina Stadium on the Gold Coast. This comes amid major turmoil in Iran, including the recent killing of their leader, Ayatollah, Ayatollah Ali Kaminay in U.S.-Israeli rocket attacks that also claimed over 500 civilian lives. Iran kicked off the tournament with a 3-0 loss to South Korea on Monday, just days after those devastating strikes. Despite the chaos back home, the Iranian players and their coach have stayed silent on the attacks and kept focusing on the competition. Matilda's playmaker Amy Sayer has praised the Iranians for their bravery in showing up and performing under such pressure. She said their hearts go out to the players and their families, calling it a tough spot but noting their strong effort in the opener.

1:00The teams are sharing a hotel on the Gold Coast leading up to the match where the Matilda's plans to offer kind words and hellos while staying. Competitive on the field, earlier fears that Iran might pull out due to civil unrest have eased since they arrived last week. Sayer, a 24-year-old midfielder returning from a serious knee injury that sideline her from the Paris Olympics is set for a bigger role after a brief appearance in Australia's win over the Philippines. The Matilda's aim to honor their opponents with top level play while hoping for safety amid the ongoing crisis. The Daily News Now is made possible with support from our sponsor. Your favorite podcasts, music, or sleep sounds coming from your pillow. No earbuds, no distractions, just listen and relax. S-O-L-L-I-SOLIPILO.COM S-O-L-L-I-SOLIPILO.COM